Police have identified the man stabbed to death in Chelmsford yesterday.

Lee Evans, 47, from Chelmsford, was found injured in Cromar Way at 1am yesterday, June 22.

He was taken to hospital where, at just after 2am, he was pronounced dead.

A post-mortem has been carried out, which established that Mr Evans suffered multiple stab wounds and the cause of death was a stab wound to the chest.

Three men, aged 40, 53, and 59, and a 53-year-old woman were arrested yesterday on suspicion of murder.

However all have now been released from custody and will face no further action.

The 53-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs, and has been released under investigation for that offence.

Police say the murder investigation, which is being led by DCI Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, is continuing.

Earlier today, DCI Pasmore said: “We are satisfied at this stage that the four people arrested in connection with our enquiries are not connected with the events which led to the victim’s death.

“Relevant lines of enquiry are being progressed expeditiously in order to find those responsible.

“We would like to extend our thanks to all the members of the public who we have spoken to so far.”

An alleyway near Meteor Way, which is close to Essex County Cricket Club, will remain closed throughout the weekend as the investigation continues.

Chief Inspector Gerry Parker, district commander for Chelmsford and Maldon, said: “We are carrying on with our high visibility patrols today and I continue to encourage everyone to go about their weekends as normal.

“If you do see something which concerns you, please tell an officer or call us on 101.”

Stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 were authorised for Chelmsford between 7.15pm yesterday evening to 4am this morning.